Cleaning the engine bay (with photos)

My engine bay is dirty as hell, are there any tips or things to avoid when cleaning the engine bay on a 04 silverado or maybe all around? I think this will actually be my first engine bay clean attempt. i may not go "all out"

I plan on being careful not to get it on the engine per se' but the fluid holders plastic covers and similar like places are all grimey and need a deep cleaning.

Could one lightly spray with a power washer from a car wash to mist the engine? or should i just go at select parts with rags and a bucket of water? wondering how one can get it "clean" without getting it "show-room worthy" thats not necessary.

I've used GUNKS it works well. Just make sure the engine is cold because it is flammable also cover the alt and exposed electronics that you thing will get damaged. Then spray the bay with the GUNKS thoroughly you may need a few cans. Wait a few mins then hose down the bay.

I like GUNK as well, but it can hurt plastics if you let it sit too long...
and whatever you do, DO NOT USE the GUNK engine shine detailing spray.... i tried it, and yeah, it shines nice- but then it turns sticky and cakes dust...
so yeah, use gunk only if you doing bare metal, and NEVER use the gunk engine shine

GUNK gives me a headache...Simple Green (don't let dry on Aluminum parts) or Purple Power (don't let it dry on anything) in diluted form works well. Spray and a couple of different sized brushes to agitate will make a big difference. The house toilet bowl brush is great for big areas(Just don't tell the wife what you are using it for). The garden hose on a spray setting will do the job. I cover the alternator & K&N filter with plastic. Power washer is OK for lower stuff.

I used to swear by Gunk back in the old days, but since Simple Green came out, I wouldn't use anything else. Easier on the composite materials and non-flammable. I cover any mass electrical components with plastic throw away grocery store bags.